What is a scabbard?

In simple terms, a scabbard is a
sword carrier consisting of a rigid core (as opposed to a sheath which has no rigid
core), usually covered with a textile covering, which protects both the sword
and its owner from harm.

Some scabbards have a lining often of wool or
felt. Some do not have the textile covering. Many have complex systems to
allow the user to wear them, others do not. The variations on them are
almost endless.